Theresa Groller

Theresa Groller, age 96, of Syosset, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love, family, and togetherness.

Theresa was the beloved wife of 75 years to the late Adolph Groller and a devoted and loving mother to Christine (Charles) and William. Her family was the center of her world, and she will be remembered for the warmth, kindness, and love she brought into their lives. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the traditions she passed down will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Born in Northampton, Pennsylvania, Theresa's life journey took her across continents and through some of history's most challenging times. As World War II began and the Great Depression took hold, her family returned to Austria, where she spent part of her early life. In 1947, Theresa made her way back to Pennsylvania, and the following year, in 1948, she moved to New York City, where she found work as an au pair. It was there that fate brought her and Adolph together at a dance. That chance meeting marked the beginning of a beautiful love story that would last 75 years and become the foundation of a loving family.

Theresa had a special gift for bringing people together, and one of the ways she expressed her love was through cooking and baking. Her kitchen was always a place of comfort, warmth, and wonderful aromas. Although she was Austrian, Theresa made a lasagna so delicious that even Italians couldn't resist it! She was also well known for her hearty beef stew and her wonderful homemade cakes and strudel.

The holidays were especially meaningful to Theresa, and Christmas would not have been complete without her assortment of homemade Christmas cookies, lovingly prepared from scratch. These were more than just family recipes; they were treasured traditions that brought everyone together year after year. For Theresa, cooking and baking were never simply about preparing a meal or dessert. They were ways of showing love, creating memories, and keeping family close. The meals shared around her table and the traditions she lovingly maintained will remain among the family's most treasured memories.

Theresa's life was defined by love, devotion, resilience, and the importance of family. Her journey brought her from Pennsylvania to Austria and eventually to New York, where she built a beautiful life with Adolph and raised her family. She leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years, but in the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the memories that will be carried forward for generations.

A visitation for Theresa will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Home in Plainview, New York. A prayer service will take place at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow immediately after the visitation at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, New York.

May Theresa's memory be eternal. May the love she shared, the family she cherished, and the beautiful traditions she created continue to bring comfort and joy to all who knew and loved her. She will forever hold a special place in our thoughts and in our hearts.